Author
Topic: The Letters (Read 5665 times)

I just became aware of this situation involving two friends, we'll call them Simon and River because, why not?

Once upon a time, Simon became very upset with River and sent her a letter detailing her flaws and giving suggestions as to how she might improve her life and behavior. Understandably, this ended what had once had been a close friendship, although it was growing more distant before the time the letter was sent.

Fast forward to a year later--Simon sends River another letter apologizing for his cruel words but reiterates that he does not wish a friendship.

I have two questions:

1. If you were Simon, would you have sent the apology letter? (I know you all are too polite to have sent the first letter, but for the sake of argument, let's assume you did.)

1) You answered your own question, but even if I was just thinking of the practicality of the situation without giving a thought to politeness: I most likely wouldn't send it. I'd be more likely to simply walk away and not contact the other person again. In fact, I'd assume that cutting myself off from them would be less painful for them than opening up old wounds.

2) The letter would end up in the trash bin and that would be the end of it. I wouldn't send any response.

Either ignore the second letter, or reply with "Do not contact me again. If you do, I will consider it harassment and take appropriate action." Both because I wouldn't want further contact, and because it makes clear that she's not waiting for this clown to see the error of his ways/forgive her/change his so-called mind.

Logged

Any advice that requires the use of a time machine may safely be ignored.

Was Simon the type of child who, upon being told he can't have sweets for dinner, stomped to his room shouting he would just go to bed hungry? Then stomps out 15 minutes later shouting "Didn't you hear me? If I can't have what I want then I'll just starve!"

Because really, that's the type of ill behavior described.

I'd toss the letter with a sigh and have ice cream with a BFF for dinner.

Logged

“A real desire to believe all the good you can of others and to make others as comfortable as you can will solve most of the problems.” CS Lewis